Theresa May warned not to cut services adrift in blueprint for Brexit

The prime minister won cabinet agreement for her Brexit plan on FridayREX/SHUTTERSTOCK

Theresa May’s Brexit plan has come under attack from business leaders who claim its emphasis on trade in physical goods risks leaving Britain’s vital services sector out in the cold.

The prime minister won cabinet agreement on Friday for a proposal that would keep the UK closely aligned to EU standards on food and goods. While this was largely welcomed by business lobby groups, some were alarmed that services — which comprise about 80% of the economy, including the City — will not enjoy such straightforward access to the EU single market under the plan.

Julian David, chief executive of TechUK, said a “goods-only” deal would reduce access to EU markets for Britain’s technology companies.

He said: “The UK tech sector does not see clear…

Want to read more?

Subscribe now and get unlimited digital access on web and our smartphone and tablet apps, free for your first month.